Coraima Valencia

Coraima’s passion for teaching sparked in Willow Oaks Elementary School thanks to her fourth-grade teacher, Ms. Diaz. Coraima did not want to wait until she was older to become a teacher; she wanted to start as soon as possible. So, she tutored her friends with their homework and developed her skills in explaining materials more easily. Then, she graduated from Menlo-Atherton High School and learned the importance of listening and encouraging others which she knew was an important skill to obtain. Next, she obtained her Associate’s degree in Early Child Development from Cañada Community College and her Bachelor’s degree in Child Development from CSU Fresno. During these years, she understood the true importance of her career as a teacher. The importance of the classroom’s environment and the role of teaching which needs to be filled with love, patience, enthusiasm, guidance, and respect. A place so every child can feel free, safe, comfortable, eager to learn, and excited to arrive the next day.

Finally, she put all her knowledge to work and became an afterschool program teacher and a camp counselor for three years. During these years, she pushed herself to make every day different and find new ways to bring her students, the teachers, and families together. Day after day, she brought her passion and energy ready to participate in sports, board games, and arts and crafts. As soon as Coraima became comfortable in her work place, she knew she needed to move forward and continue growing. Her best friend, Martha, spoke to her about the philosophy of The Primary School and she immediately knew she wanted to be a part of the team. Most importantly, she wants to give back to her community and spark the hearts of her students just like Ms. Diaz did to her.